Physiological and psychological responses to prolonged light floor-impact sounds generated by a tapping machine in a wooden house

We investigated the physiological and psychological responses of nine normal men to the prolonged light floor-impact sounds of 60dBA and 80dBA generated by a tapping machine in a two-story wooden house. Blood pressure was measured, and a sensory evaluation was also conducted using the semantic differential method. The results obtained were as follows: (1) the increase in systolic blood pressure immediately after exposure to the light floor-impact sounds depended on the level of the sounds, (2) the variations in feelings due to the prolonged light floor-impact sounds were identified by factor analysis, and (3) the subjects showed no difference in comfortable feeling for the prolonged light floor-impact sounds of 60dBA and 80dBA, but differences in the variation of the systolic blood pressure were detected.Part of this research was presented at the 47th Annual Meeting of the Japan Wood Research Society, Kochi, April 1997     

Mangrove structure,litter and macroalgal productivity in a northern‐most forest of Florida

Rhizophora mangle L. dominated 10 overwash islands within Tampa Bay forming the northernmost mangrove forests on the west coast of Florida. The mean number of trees and basal area were 5040 trees ha^-1 and 20.5m²ha^-1, respectively. Basal areas ranged from 1.1 (Avicennia germinans (L.) Stern), to 2.6m²ha^-1 (Laguncularia racemosa Gaertner), to 16.8 (R. mangle). Cockroach Bay mangroves are small (5.8–7.0m tall) versus coastal forests of south Florida and the Caribbean. Total litter production for a 12 month period was maximal in September for fringing (7.4gdwtm^-2d^-1) and interior (8.7gdwtm^-2d^-1) areas with the two zones not being significantly different. Average litter fall (3.1gdwtm^-2d^-1) was similar to more tropical Caribbean mangals. Leaves accounted for 68 of the litter and reproductive material for 6, being similar to tropical riverine and overwash marine angiosperm communities on the Mexican coast. Although mangrove forests in Tampa Bay are small in stature and experience cold damage and occasional frosts, their litter fall is similar in biomass to that of more tropical mangals. However, their reproductive output is low based on litter fall versus more tropical mangals suggesting that the northern extension is less than optimum. Macroalgal diversity was low (10 species) as compared to Caribbean mangals. Macroalgal turf (0.8gCm^-2d^-1) and epiphyte communities of A.germinans pneumatophores (2.7gCm^-2d^-1) have productivity levels that are equal to or greater than those of Caribbean mangals.     

Concentration and molecular weight distribution of dissolved organic carbon in a mangrove creek in the Hinchinbrook area,Australia

The concentration and molecular weight distribution of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) are reported for a mangrove creek in the Hinchinbrook area, Australia. DOC concentration ranged from 1.0mg Cl–1 near the creek mouth to 2.2mg Cl–1 at the innermost part of the creek. There was no apparent spatial trend in molecular weight distribution of DOC, with a >300gmol–1 fraction accounting for about 70% of the total in all samples. DOC concentration fluctuated between 0.5 and 1.2mg Cl–1 over one tidal cycle. The samples collected at low tide and during the rising tide were dominated by DOC of >300gmol–1 and <300gmol–1, respectively. This suggested the export of high molecular weight DOC, probably originating from litter leachates, and the import of low molecular weight DOC to the creek.     

Mangrove forest productivity and biomass accumulation in Hinchinbrook Channel,Australia

Data on stand structure and rates of photosynthesis were used to estimate net canopy carbon fixation and carbon accumulation as living biomass in mangrove forests in Hinchinbrook Channel, Australia. Total annual canopy net carbon fixation was estimated to be about 29tCha–1yr–1. This equates to about 204,000tCyr–1 for all mangrove forests in Hinchinbrook Channel. Of this, only about 12% was stored as living plant biomass. Although it is not yet possible to present a robust carbon balance for mangrove trees, the remainder is presumably lost through plant respiration, litter fall, root turnover and exudation of organic compounds from roots.     

In vitro propagation of <Emphasis Type="Italic">Oroxylum indicum</Emphasis> Vent. a medicinally important forest tree

In vitro propagation of Oroxylum indicum Vent. was carried out using cotyledonary node explants. Among the different types of cytokinins used for culture establishment, 6-benzyladenine exhibited the best response with higher concentrations (8.87µM or above) for inducing multiple shoots. Inclusion of indole-3-acetic acid (2.85µM) into 6-benzyladenine-supplemented medium triggered a high frequency of response as well as a proliferation of shoots. The best medium for proliferation was Murashige-Skoog (MS) medium with 6-benzyladenine (8.87µM) and indole-3-acetic acid (2.85µM). However, incorporation of gibberellic acid (1.44µM) was mandatory to enhance shoot elongation. Repeated subculturing of cotyledonary node and in vitro developed nodal segments in MS medium with 6-benzyladenine (4.44µM) at 4-week intervals resulted in continuous mass multiplication of shoots without any evidence of decline. Root induction was best (91.6%) when MS strength was reduced to one-quarter and combined with -naphthalene acetic acid (2.69µM) and indole-3-acetic acid (5.71µM), with a high survival rate (70–72%) of plantlets hardened in either soil rite or soil:sand:soil rite (1:1:2).     

Nitrogen use by <Emphasis Type="Italic">Pinus densiflora</Emphasis> trees growing on a Mt. Fuji lava flow

To quantify the nitrogen (N) use by Pinus densiflora trees growing on an infertile lava surface, N pools, N requirement and N uptake through fine roots and N deposition from the atmosphere were estimated. The N requirement and the N uptake of fine roots were 55.5kgNha^–1year^–1 and 39.7kgNha^–1, respectively. Thus, the ratio of N uptake to N requirement of the fine roots was 71.5%. Including fine-root contribution, the total N requirement of the P. densiflora trees was 98.6kgNha^–1year^–1, and the total N uptake was 64.2kgNha^–1year^–1. Thus, the N uptake of the P. densiflora trees was 64.1% of the N requirement, indicating that P. densiflora trees growing on an infertile lava surface obtain some of their N from below-ground organic material layers every year and the contribution of N storage in trees for their growth is not any higher than indicated in previous reports that excluded fine-roots contribution. The wet N deposition of our research forest was only 5.8% of the N requirement of the P. densiflora trees and only 8.9% of the N uptake. Movement of the below-ground organic material layer N concentrations in the F- and L-layers coincides with needle development and fine-root growth, suggesting the possibility that P. densiflora trees extract N from the organic N of those layers for growth.     

Die neuesten Erkenntnisse der forstlichen Entomologie in der Tschechoslowakei

Summary Present development of forestry entomology in the SSRThis article gives an outline on the occurrence of the more important harmful forest insects in the SSR in the year 1950–1962 and on the results of their study. The Norway spruce suffered from the year 1954 notably byIps typographus L. The control was based on insecticides, studies included optimal density of natural regeneration at the mass propagation etc. It was found, for instance, that typical density borings in bark (151–300 borings per 1 sq.m. of bark) shows variation in the shortest distance between borings from 54–70 mm. Relation between density of borings and their distance indicates function y = a.x^–b, (constant a = 476,9 and constant b= 0,38). It was further found thatIps typographus L. shows even sister generations twice in a year (about 60%, eventually even 30% females of the preceding population). Sister laying is conditioned mainly climatically, i.e. also by the forest stand elevation above sea level. A secure control of further harmful species of Norway spruce,Trypodendron lineatum (Ol.) was carried out by extirpation of wintering beetles in soil, eventually by treating of round wood by emulsions on the HCH + DDT basis.Cephaleia abietis L. shows two diapause periods in a larval stage. For this reason, the development of this species lasts prevailingly two years (90% population). Swarming imagines are controlled by chemical aerosols (10% DDT in the dosis 4–8 kg/ha). On obtained from eggsTrichogramma cephalciae Hochm. et Mart. which cannot be grown on eggs of butterflies. Investigations found that the clean eating ofZeiraphera diniana Guen. begins at the density of 300 caterpillars per one meter of long branch. Chemical control (aerosol 10 l/ha) is recommended when feeding is repeated for three years. The mass propagation ofBupalus piniarinus L. appeared on the Scotch pine. The critical number amounts 400 caterpillars per one kg of needles.Hylobius abletis L. is controlled by insecticides in trap barks and by underground traps for concentration of egg laying. Oak was injuried mostly by the rollerTortrix viridana. The critical number is one caterpillar per one bud. Other, in the SSR new harmful insect of oakArchips crataegana (Hb.) showed the critical number 100 egg heaps on the stem to the height of 2 m. The eggs of the above mentioned species showedTrichogramma embryophagum cacoeciae March., which can easily be grown on butterfly eggs. Oak 60–200 years old was attacked byApethymus biaccatus (Gmel.) andA. abdominalis (Lep.). Silver fir was harmed mainly by the rollerChoristoneura murinana (Hb.). Also the critical number was found. Egg rearing gaveTrichogramma minutum Ril. Ash indicates new type of bark injuries caused probably by a representative of the genusLestes (Fig. 1.). Poplars are damaged by the species of the familyCerambycidae, further byCryptorrhynchus lapathi L. and by the species of the familyAegeridae. Saperda carcharias L. has in the Czechoslovak conditions a generation of three years. Eggs overwinter.Cryptorrhynchus lapathi L. has in the southern Moravia mostly (70% population) one year generation, the rest shows a generation of two years. Beech and hornbeaum were harmfully attacked byErannis aurantiaria Hb.) andColotois pennaria (L.). It is obvious that in the year 1950–1962 several species (Alchips crataegana (Hb.),Apethymus braccatus (Gmel.),A. abdominalis (Lep.) on oak,Erannis aurantiaria (Hb.) andColotois pennaria (L.) on. hornbeam and oak,Pachynematus scutellatus Htg. on Norway spruce etc.) previously not known as important forest injurious insect, appeared as calamity species. Further it is obvious that some harmful insects probably under the influence of changed structure and also forest stand microclimate are retreating whereas other species show mass outbreak. For this reason it is necessary to study the lawfulness of the propagation of the individual species.

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Résumé Les plus récentes expériences de l'entomologie en TchécoslovaquieLe travail contient un aperçu concernant la présence d'insectes nuisibles forestiers de certaine importance en Tchécoslovaquie au cours des années 1950–1962 ainsi que le résultat de leur recherche. Jusqu'à 1954 l'épicéa a été assaili surtout par l'Ips typogiaphus L. On cherche une solution de la défense au moyen des insecticides, la densité optimale d'attaque en cas de la reproduction excessive etc. Par exemple il a été constaté que lors de la densité typique de forage de l'écorce (151–300 forages par mètre carré d'écorce) leur distance ré ciproque varie de 54 à 70 mm. Le rapport entre la densité de forage et de leurs distances présente la forme de fonction y = a.x^–b, où la constante a = 476,9 et la constante b = 0,38. Ensuite il a été constaté qu'en ce qui concerne l'Ips typogiaphus L. existent même deux gé nérations-soeurs au cours de l'année (environ 60 % respectivement encore 30 % des femelles de la population pécédente). La production de pondaisonsoeur est soumis surtout au facteurs climatiques, c'est à dire même á l'altitude des peuplements. Contre un antre parasite de l'épicéa, leTrypodendron lineatum (Ol.), une certaine défense fut élaborée par l'extermination d'imagos hivernant dans le sol ou par le traitement de rondin par des émulsions sur la base HCH + DDT. En ce qui conceme laCephaleia abietis L. on a constaté deux phases de diapause en état de larve. C'est pourquoi le développement duparasite est en majorité biennal (90% de la population). II a été introduit une lutte chimique contre l'essaimage d'imagos par des aerosols (10% de DDT dans une dose de 4 à 8 kg par ha). On a réussi à faire sortir des oeufs de laTrichogramma cephalciae Hochm. et Mart. que l'on ne peut pas cultiver sur les oeufs de papillons. En ce qui concerne laZeiraphera diniana Guen. il fut constaté que la défoliation compléte a lieu par 300 chenilles sur une branche d'un métre de longueur. La lutte chimique est recommandée en cas d'attaque repétée au cours de trois ans. Sur des pins il fut constaté la multiplication de masse duBupalus piniarius L. où le chiffre critique et atteint par 400 chenilles sur un kg d'aiguilles. En ce qui concerne l'Hylobius abietis L. on élabora une manière de défense en utilisant des insecticides dans des pièges d'écorce et des pièges souterrains pour saisir les pondaisons. Sur le chêne c'était laTortrix viridana qui a causé les plus grands dé gâts. Le chiffre critique est exprimé par une chenille pour un bourgeon. En ce qui concerne l'ulté rieur parasite de chêne nouvellement apparu en Tchécoslovaquie, l'Archips crataegana (Hb.), le chiffre critique fut fixé par 100 agglomérations ovulaires sur le tronc jusqu'à 2 mètres de hauteur. On a obtenu laTrichogramma embryophagum cacoeciae March., qui peut être facilement cultivée sur les oeufs de papillons. Sur les chênes d'un âge de 60 à 200 sont apparus ensuite comme parasite desApethymus braccatus (Gmel.) et desApethymus abdominalis (Lep.). Sur le sapin apparaît surtout laChoristoneura murinana (Hb.). Un chiffre critique fut fixé. On a obtenu à partir des oeufs laTrichogramma minutum Ril. On a découvert sur le frêne un nouveau type de lésion de l'é corce provoqué vraisemblablement par la libellule g.Lestes (Fig. 1). Les capricornes, leCryptorrhynchus et lesSesia spp. sont nuisibles aux peupliers. En Tchécoslovaquie laSaperda carcharias L. a une géneration triennale. Les oeufs hivernent. LeCryptorrhynchus lapathi L. a en Moravie du Sud en majorité (70% de la population) une génération annuelle, le restant, biennale. Ensuite sur le hêtre et sur le charme a eu lieu l'apparition désastreuse de la chenille arpenteuseErannis aurantiaria (Hb.) et de laColotois pennaria (L.). Il en ressort donc qu'au cours des années 1950–52 plusieurs espèces ont fait une apparition désastreuse:Archips crataegana (Hb.),Apethymus biaccatus (Gmel.),Apethymus abdominalis (Lep.) sur le chêne,Erannis aurantiaria (Hb.) etColotois pennaria (L.) sur le charme et le hêtre, lePachynematus scutellatus Htg. sur l'épicéa et d'autres qui é taíent auparavent inconnus comme parasites considérables de la forêt.On peut en déduire qu'évidemment sous l'influence de la structure transformée et par consé quent du microclima des peuplements, certains parasites tendent à disparaître, tandis que d'autres insectes deviennent parasites désastreux. C'est pourquoi une recherche approfondie des lois de la reproduction en masse des différentes espèces est nécéssaire.

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- 1950–1962. . 1954. Ips typographus L. , , . . , (151–300 1 ² ) 54 70 . y = a x^–b, a = 476,9 b = 0,38. , Ips typographus L. ( 60%, 30% ). , . . . Trypodendron lineatum (01.) , HCH + DDT. Cephalia abietis (L.) , (90% ). (10% 4–8 (). Trichogramma cephalciae Hochhm. & Mart., . Zeiraphera diniana Guen. 300 1 . . . ( 10 /) . Bupalus piniarius L., 1 400 . Hylobius abietis L. . Tortrix viridana L. 1 1 . , ,Archips crataegana (Hb.) 100 2 . Trichogramma embryophagum cacoeciae March., . 60–200 Apethymus braccatus (Gmel.) Apethymus abdominalis (Lep.). Choristoneura murinana (Hb.). . Trichogramma minutum Ril. - Lestes (. 1). , .Saperda carcharias L. . .Cryptorrhynchus lapathi L. (70% ) , . Erannis aurantiaria (Hb.) Colotois pennaria (L.). , 1950–1962. (Archips crataegana (Hb.),Apethymus braccatus (Gmel.),Apethymus abdominalis (Lep.), Erannis aurantiaria (Hb.) Colotois pennaria (L.), Pachynematus scutellatus Htg. . .), . , , . .

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Herrn Prof. Dipl.-Ing. Dr. A. Pfeffer zum 60. Geburtstag gewidmet.     

Die Übertragung des Enationenvirus der Erbse durch verschiedene Morphen der BlattlausartenMacrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas) undAcyrthosiphon pisum (Harris)

Zusammenfassung Unterschiedliche Vektoreignungen können zwischen Rassen, Morphen und Altersstadien einer Blattlausart auftreten. Es wurden verschiedene Morphen vonMacrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas) undAcyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) hinsichtlich ihrer Übertragungsfähigkeit für das persistente Enationenvirus der Erbse geprüft. Dabei erwiesen sich ovipare Weibchen und adulte Männchen vonM. euphorbiae als ungeeignete Überträger, während die gleichen Morphen von zweiA. pisum-Populationen die Virose übertrugen. Auch die Fundatrix desA. pisum-BastardsTrifolium pratense rot XSarothamnus scoparius grün übertrug zu einem relativ hohen Prozentsatz. Ovipare Weibchen und Männchen der inaktiven RasseLotus uliginosus gelb konnten keine Infektion bewirken; die persistente Virusübertragungsfähigkeit ist im Falle vonAcyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) offenbar ein genetisch fixiertes Merkmal.

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Summary Different vector abilities may exist between races, morphs and development instars of a given aphid species. Several morphs ofMacrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas) and ofAcyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) were tested in their transmission ability for the persistent pea enation mosaic virus. Oviparous females and adult males ofM. euphorbiae proved insuitable for transmission, the corresponding morphs of twoA. pisum-populations, however, were successful in transmitting. The fundatrix of theA. pisum hybridTrifolium pratense red xSarothamnus scoparius green transmitted to a relatively high percentage. Oviparous females and males of the inactiv raceLotus uliginosus yellow failed completely in transmitting; in the present case ofA. pisum the transmission character of the persistent virus evidently is genetically fixed.

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Résumé Différentes aptitudes de vecteur peuvent se trouver entre les races, les morphes et les périodes d'âge d'une espèce de pucerons. Différentes morphes deMacrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas) et deAcyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) ont été examinées en ce qui concerne leurs aptitudes de transmettre le virus persistant du pois(pea enation mosaic). En ce cas les femelles ovipares et les mâles adultes deM. euphorbiae se montraient impropres à la transmission, pendant que les mêmes morphes de deux populations deA. pisum transmettaient la virose. C'était la fondatrice du bâtard deA. pisum Trifolium pratense rouge avecSarothamnus scoparius vert qui transmettait à une pourcentage relativement haute. Les femelles ovipares et les mâles de la race «inactive» deLotus uliginosus jaune ne pouvaient pas effectuer d'infection; en cas deAcyrthosiphon pisum (Harris), l'aptitude persistante à transmettre le virus évidemment est un caractère fixé d'une façon génétique.

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, . Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas) Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) peaenation mosaic virus). M. euphorbiae , {A. pisum} . A. pisum-Trifolium pratense Sarothamnus scoparius . «» Lotus uliginosus ; Acrythosiphon pisum (Harris) .

     

Gamma radiation sensitivity of larvae and adults of the red flour beetle, <Emphasis Type="Italic">Tribolium castaneum</Emphasis> Herbst

In this study, the susceptibility of larvae and adults of Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) to gamma radiation was investigated in the laboratory in Turkey. Gamma radiation was applied at 6 dose levels between 20 and 200Gy to 13–15day-old adults and at 5 dose levels between 20 and 180Gy to 18–20day-old larvae of T. castaneum. All experiments were performed in growth chambers maintained at 27±1°C and 70±5% r.h. The larvae proved to be the more susceptible stage, survival to the adult stage being prevented by exposure of the eggs to 100Gy; the adult stage was less susceptible. LD₅₀ and LD₉₉ values were determined as 19,75 and 42,97Gy for larvae and 33,21 and 64,50Gy for adult stage, respectively. It was concluded that 100Gy is the effective dose for both larval and adult stages.     

Estimated stocks of organic carbon in mangrove roots and sediments in Hinchinbrook Channel,Australia

Aboveground and belowground root biomasses (Babove and Broot) were measured for young, isolated Rhizophorastylosa on Iriomote Island, Japan. The relationship between these two parameters was significant and given as the equation, Broot(g dry weight) = 0.394 × Babove(g dry weight) – 485 (r = 0.986). Multiple regression analyses also revealed good correlation between diameter and biomass of prop roots (Dprop and Bprop) and between prop root and root biomasses. Consequently, root biomass could be estimated from the measurements of diameter and biomass of prop roots using the multiple regression equation, Broot(g dry weight) = 80.0 ×Dprop(cm) + 0.86 ×Bprop (g dry weight) – 251. The relationship between DBH (diameter at breast height) and prop root biomass was also adequately described using an allometric equation.In Hinchinbrook Channel, Australia, redox potential (measured as Eh) and organic carbon stocks in the top 5cm of mangrove sediments were measured along a 600m transect from the frequently inundated, Rhizophora dominated zone on the creek edge, towards higher grounds, where Ceriops spp. became increasingly dominant. Eh values were about –60mV near the creek edge and increased to 260mV on higher grounds. Organic carbon stocks showed an opposite trend to Eh, with the values decreasing from about 360tCha–1 to 160tCha–1. At 18 sites, representing six different habitats, organic carbon stocks were also measured along with the DBH of mangrove trees. DBH was converted into aboveground biomass and then into root biomass using the equations obtained in the study on Iriomote Island. The average organic carbon stocks in the top 50 cm of sediments, aboveground biomass and root biomass were 296tCha–1, 123 tCha–1 and 52 tCha–1, respectively, and accounted for 64%, 25% and 11% of the total organic carbon stock.     

Biological performance of wood-based composites treated with a formulation of 3-iodo-2-propynyl butylcarbamate and silafluofen using supercritical carbon dioxide

Wood-based composites (medium density fiberboard, hardwood plywood, softwood plywood, particleboard, and oriented strand board) treated with a mixture formulation of 3-iodo-2-propynyl butylcarbamate (IPBC) and silafluofen using supercritical carbon dioxide as a carrier solvent were evaluated for their resistance to biological attack in a laboratory study. The formulation was pre-pared by mixing 10g of IPBC and 1g of silafluofen in ethanol solution (20ml). Treatments were conducted at 35°C/7.85MPa, 35°C/9.81MPa, and 55°C/11.77MPa with the direct introduction of 20ml of the formulation into the treatment vessel with a capacity of ca. 2000ml at a rate of 2ml/min. Laboratory tests indicated that the treatment conditions used significantly enhanced the resistance of the treated wood-based composites against fungal and termite attacks. Because no significant difference in efficacy against both biodegrading agents was noticed regardless of the treatment conditions, the treatment at 35°C/7.85MPa was thought to be the most economical in terms of energy consumption and performance of treated materials. However, the amount of biocides in a formulation must be carefully selected in accordance with the required treatment condition to ensure satisfactory performance of the treated wood-based composites against any biological agent.     

Root morphology and nutritional status of Japanese red cedar saplings subjected to in situ levels of aluminum in forest soil solution

There is little information on the effects of in situ levels of aluminum (Al) in the forest soil solution on the root morphology of Japanese red cedar (Cryptomeria japonica D. Don). We evaluated whether morphological and nutritional changes in the white roots of Japanese red cedar saplings grown in glass-bead culture for 18 weeks occurred in response to Al solutions at five concentrations: 0 (control), 0.05, 0.1, 0.5, and 1.0mM. Branching white roots treated with 0.5 or 1.0mM Al had some stunted, brown, thickened tips. Their mean lengths were significantly shorter than those of roots treated with 0.05 or 0.1mM Al. The maximum diameters of white roots treated with 0.5 or 1.0mM Al were significantly larger than those of the control. Treatment with 0.5 or 1.0mM Al reduced the concentrations of Ca and Mg in the white roots and increased the concentration of Al compared with the control. These results indicate that between 0.1 and 0.5mM Al, a drastic change occurs in the effects of Al on the morphology and nutritional status of white roots of Japanese red cedar saplings, and suggest that the Al levels in Japanese forest soils may induce morphological changes in the white roots.     

Seasonal variation of inorganic nitrogen and net mineralization in a salt marsh ecosystem

Inorganic nitrogen pools and net mineralization were estimated in three sites of a Tagus estuary salt marsh in Portugal throughout 1 year. Ammonium (NH₄ ⁺) was the major form of inorganic nitrogen found in the salt marsh soil. Extractable NH₄ ⁺ concentrations showed a marked seasonal pattern with a concentration peak during the hotter months of July/August. The great majority (>99%) of the total nitrogen in the soil was found in sedimented organic matter, not readily available for plant uptake. Net nitrogen mineralization, determined using a field incubation method, showed a peak during the months of June/July which resulted in an increase on nitrogen availability. With the exception of the lower salt marsh, estimated rates of in situ net nitrogen mineralization in the soil during summer were well related to the increase in plant aboveground biomass and plant nitrogen pools, indicating that the process is an important source of available nitrogen for plant uptake and growth. Annual net nitrogen mineralization ranged between 2.4 and 4.5gNm^–2yr^{– 1} being significantly higher for the lower salt marsh site. Rates of net nitrogen mineralization were relatively low during most of the year with a particularly active period from June to August, possibly due to an effect of temperature on soil microbial activity.     

Effects of nitrogen and phosphorus fertilization on the growth and nutrition of hybrid poplars on Vancouver Island

The effects of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) rates, P source, and method of P application were tested on growth and nutrition of four clones of hybrid poplar (Populus trichocarpa Torr. & Gray×P. deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh or P. trichocarpa×P. maximowiczii A. Henry) in a plantation on Vancouver Island. Treatments were applied shortly after planting. Nitrogen (0, 500kgNha^–1) was supplied as ammonium sulfate (AS); half of the AS was added at the start of the second growing season. Phosphorus (0, 100, 200kgPha^–1) was supplied as triple super phosphate (TSP), rock phosphate (RP), or diammonium phosphate (DAP) and banded or broadcast. Over four growing seasons, stem volumes increased with AS and P additions. The effects of AS and P each were greatest when the other was also added. Volume was greater when P was applied at 100kgha^–1 than in the P control and did not significantly increase further at 200kgPha^–1. Phosphorus additions were more effective when added as TSP or DAP than when added as RP, but only in P100 and when banded. Banding increased volume when P was applied at 200kgha^–1, but increases were significant only for DAP fertilized trees. Roto-tilling associated with the banding treatment also increased volume when AS and P were not added. Rankings of clones with respect to stem volume varied with N supply and changed over time.     

Generationszahl der RübenfliegePegomyia hyoscyami betae Curt.

Summary During the years 1959–1961 the number of generations was followed in Spinach Leaf Miner (Pegomyia hyoscyami betae Curt.) in central Bohemia at 310 m above sea level and in the year 1961 in southern Bohemia at 450 m. The larvae and the eggs were studied on the leaves at regular 10–14 days' intervals by controlling each plant and images by means of a sweeping method. There have been acertained two generations in the year 1959 and three generations in the year 1961 in central Bohemia and two generations in the year 1961 in southern Bohemia. The occurence of every generation of larvae on the suggar-beet was separate and the previous and the consecutive generation did not overlop.The origin of the erroneous date on 6–7 generations of this species (Rambousek, Neuwirth, 1931) has been also cleared up in this article. This statement has been taken over by Sorauer (1953) from the Review of Applied Entomology (1931) and has been lately mentioned by many authors. F. Neuwirth gave a personal information, that the statement on 6–7 generations occurence of Spinach Leaf Miner has been found on the basis of theoretical calculation (from the lenght of one generation in spring and not on the basis of the facts found in natural conditions).

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Résumé En 1959–1961 le nombre des générations de la mouche de la betterave a été observé dans la Bohème Centrale á l'altitude de 310 m audessus de la mer et en 1961 dans le Sud de la Bohème á l'altitude de 450 m. Les larves et les oeufs ont été observé sur les feuilles dans les intervalles de 10–14 jours regulierement effectués sur chaque plante et imagines en particulier par le filet fauchior. En 1959 deux générations et en 1960 et 1961 trios géné rations dans la Bohéme Centrale, ainsi que en 1961 deux générations dans le Sud de la Boheme ont été constates. La prence de chaque génération des larves sur la betterave aété separée et les générations consecutives ne malaient pas presque jamais avec les précedents.Dans cet travail l'auteur a clarifié comment une donnée fautive sur 6–7 générations de cette espéce est survenu (Rambousek et Neuwirth, 1931). Cette donnée orginante de Review of Applied Entomology [1931] a été reprise par Sorauer (1953) et elle a été ensuite récemment mentionée par d'autres auteurs. Selon une déclaration personelle de Mr. F. Neuwirth les donées des 6–7 générations de la mouche de la betterave en Tschécoslovaquie ent été acquis par une évaluation théoretique (se basant sur la durée de la génération du printemps et non sur les resultats des observations réelles dans les conditions naturelles.

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Richtungen der angewandten Entomologie in Bulgarien

Summary For protection of agricultural crops, archards, forests and stored products a system of institutes for vegetative protection have been gradually built in Bulgaria within the last fifteen years. Now a leading part in the study of pests and diseases of plants are taking the Academy of Rural Economy Sciences and the Institutes for Plant Protection, for Forest Protection, the Zoological Institute by the Bulgarian Academy of Science, the Higher Rural Economy Institute and the Higher Forest Institute. Specialists of all ranks are working at these institutes: academicians, member correspondents, professors, senior and junior scientific collaborators and a great number of experts and assistants. Parallel with the studies of specific composition of pestilent insects, their biology is being explored and experiments are being made with insecticides. An inquiry is also being undertaken for utilization biologic combat against noxious insects. In aid of scientific institutes a dense network of services for heading the research work and combat on the terrain has been organized.

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Résumé Pour la défense des cultures agricoles, des vergers, des forêts et des produits récoltés, un système d'instituts pour la défense végétale a été successivement dé veloppé en Bulgarie pendant les dernières quinze années. Actuellement l'Academie des sciences de l'economie rurale et les Instituts pour la défense végétale ont le rôle dirigeant dans les recherches de la nocivité et des maladies sur les plantes. Dans ces instituts travaillent des spécialistes de toutes les catégories scientifiques: des académiciens, des membres-correspondants, des professeurs, des travailleurs scientifiques supérieurs et plus jeunes, avec un grand nombre d'aides-spécialistes. Parallèllement à l'étude de composition specifique des insectes nuisibles on étudie sa biologie, de même on fait des expériences avec des insecticides. Aussi on cherche à utiliser la lutte biologique contre les insectes nuisibles. Pour faciliter les instituts scientifiques dans cette lutte et leur recherche sur le terrain, un immense service est organisé dans tous les plus grands emplacements peuplés du pays.

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Effects of a nursery CO2 enriched atmosphere on the germination and seedling morphology of two Mediterranean oaks with contrasting leaf habit

The use of an enriched CO₂ atmosphere in tree nurseries has been envisaged as a promising technique to increase productivity and to obtain seedlings with a higher root/shoot ratio, an essential trait to respond to water stress in Mediterranean-type ecosystems. In that framework, we have analyzed the effects of three levels of atmospheric CO₂ concentration (350, 500 and 700ppm) on the germination rate, growth and morphology of seedlings of two Mediterranean oaks used in reforestation programs: the evergreen Quercus ilex L. and the deciduous Quercus cerrioides Wilk. et Costa. CO₂ enrichment increased the germination rate of Q. cerrioides (from 70±7 to 81±3%) while it decreased that of Q. ilex (from 71±10 to 41±12%). Seedlings of both species increased approximately 60% their total biomass in response to CO₂ enrichment but at two different CO₂ concentrations: 500ppm for Q. cerrioides and 700ppm for Q. ilex. This increase in seedlings biomass was entirely due to an augmentation of root biomass. Considering germination and biomass partitioning, an enriched CO₂ atmosphere might not be appropriate for growing Mediterranean evergreen oaks, such as Q. ilex, since it reduces acorn germination and the only gains in root biomass occur at a high concentration (700ppm). On the other hand, a moderate CO₂ enrichment (500ppm) appears as a promising nursery technique to stimulate the germination, growth and root/shoot ratio of deciduous oaks, such as Q. cerrioides.     

Dependence of reaction kinetics and physical and mechanical properties on the reaction systems of acetylation II: physical and mechanical properties

Acetylation of wood was carried out in acetic anhydride only, acetic anhydride/xylene 1:1 (v/v), and acetic anhydride/pyridine 4:1 (v/v) solutions. The antishrink efficiency (ASE), hygroscopic properties, vibrational properties, and bending strength were compared among the three reaction solutions. The ASE was a simple function of weight gain (WG); the equilibrium moisture content at a given WG differed among the reaction solutions. Based on this fact and the results of repeated water soaking and oven-drying tests, it was found that the bulking effect was a major factor, and that decreased hygroscopicity contributes only slightly to the dimensional stabilization by acetylation. The difference in equilibrium moisture content among reaction solutions appears more significant in block samples than wood meal, probably due to the fiber-to-fiber bonds in the former. The tendencies for change in the specific Youngs modulus and the loss tangent differed among reaction solutions, whereas in the static bending test the difference was not marked.Part of this report was represented at the 52nd Annual Meeting of the Japan Wood Research Society, Gifu, April 2002     

Water circulation, groundwater outflow and nutrient dynamics in Mida creek, Kenya

The relationship between physical hydrodynamic processes and nutrients dynamics was investigated in Mida creek, a groundwater influenced mangrovefringed creek in Kenya between March 1996 and May 1997. The research involved spot and timeseries measurement of nitrate–nitrite, ammonia, silicates, phosphates, salinity, temperature, sealevel as well as tidal currents at seven stations located in the front, middle and backwater zones of the creek. Groundwater level as well as total dissolved solids' concentration, salinity, temperature and nutrients' concentration were also measured once every month in shallow wells (watertable<5m) located in the upper region of the creek. Results of the study show that nutrient concentrations vary with the tide and that, though there is no river drainage, they are of the same magnitude as in mangrove creeks with substantial river runoff. The peak concentrations of NH ₄ ⁺ –N (5.45M), NO ₂ –NO ₃ (5.63M), PO ₄ ^3– –P (0.58M) and SiO ₃ ^2– –Si (81.36M) in the creek occurred during flood tide, 2–3h before high waters. The (NO ₂ ^– + NO ₃ ^– )–N concentrations declined rapidly during ebb tide, reaching the minimum levels during low water. Contribution of groundwater seepage to the net nutrients flux (particularly on nitrite–nitrates) is largest in dry seasons. The study shows that groundwater outflow sustains the mangroves during periods of severe salinity stress and nutrients deficiency in dry seasons. This is essentially by limiting salinity increase and by boosting nutrient supply in dry seasons.     

Development of binderless particleboard from kenaf core using steam-injection pressing

Binderless particleboards were successfully developed from kenaf core using the steam-injection press. The effects of board density, steam pressure, and treatment time on the properties of the board were evaluated. The target board densities were relatively low, ranging from 0.40 to 0.70g/cm³. The properties [i.e., moduli of rupture (MOR) and elasticity (MOE) in both dry and wet conditions, internal bonding strength (IB), and water absorption (WA)] of the boards increased linearly with increasing board density. Steam pressure and treatment time also affected the board properties. The bending strength and IB were improved with increased steam pressure. A long steam treatment time contributed to low thickness swelling (TS) values and thus better dimensional stability. The appropriate steam pressure was 1.0MPa, and the treatment time was 10–15min. The properties for 0.55g/cm³ density boards under optimum conditions were MOR 12.6MPa, MOE 2.5GPa, IB 0.49MPa, TS 7.5%, and wet MOR 2.4MPa. Compared with the requirement of JIS 5908, 1994 for particleboard, kenaf binderless boards showed excellent IB strength but relatively poor durability.Part of this report was presented at the 19th Annual Meeting of the Japan Wood Technological Association, Tokyo, October 2001